Downtown's new 'Thirsty Soul' caters to both the body and spirit June 26, 2010 A new addition to Antigo’s downtown offers sustenance for the body—and spirit.
Diane Kondrath has opened the Thirsty Soul in the 800 block of Fifth Avenue, offering an eclectic mix of products and services.
“I hope this can be a gathering place for people,” Kondrath said stressing The Thirsty Soul’s warm and relaxing atmosphere. “Our motto is relax, revive and restore.”
The core of the business is a Christian bookstore, coming months after the closure of The Mustard Seed, Antigo’s longtime outlet, a block to the east. Kondrath gained her experience at that retailer.
The store offers a range of books, CDs, DVDs and gifts and can also quickly special order any item, having it delivered within days. It also have a selection of items on hand as requested by local congregations. Door County Coffee gift bags are also available.
Complimenting the browsing atmosphere of a bookstore is The Thirsty Soul’s coffee shop, offering a wide mix of lattes, steamers, Chai tea, iced coffees, fruit smoothies, java and summer frosts. Beans are roasted on site, creating a tantalizing aroma.
“Everything is super fresh,” Kondrath said. “Also, Since I didn't want to sell brewed coffee that sits around and isn't fresh we came up with an alternative. It's a unique coffee called "Better Than Brewed". We use a cold extraction process that I don't think any other shops are doing. It has become a favorite for many.”
Kondrath has completed her food service certification and plans to begin serving an array of soups, sandwiches and desserts in addition to the biscotti and cookies now available.
She also plans to begin offering live entertainment on weekends.
The third component of the business is “The Other Satellite Guy,” a Dish Network authorized retailer. Installations are done by Kondrath’s son Wes, the outlet catered to new and existing Dish customers, offering an array of equipment upgrades and services.
All the services co-mingle in a delightful, homey atmosphere of tables and couches that are already receiving regulars along with a Bible study group and a group of morning walkers who gather for libations and visiting. The walls are devoted to artwork created and sold by local artists and a mix of handmade afghans and knitted goods, created by local artisans, are also available. There is also antique furniture, which is being sold on consignment.
There’s free Wi-Fi service for those who must stay connected.
Kondrath said the various businesses are a good mix, and she will be offering space in the renovated lower level for new start-up businesses as well. Four offices are available.
The owner said the Thirsty Soul fulfills a longtime dream, and was made possible with the help of a slew of family and friends, including Amy and Linda from Citizens Bank, friends Dixie, Margorie, Tom and Sara, and her sons, Wes, Zach and Bradley, along with Wes’s girl friend, Ashley.
Hours are 7:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Monday through Friday and 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Saturday.
“Business has been very good,” Kondrath said. “I’m thankful, and very grateful.”
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